HMRC have produced a "final proposal" on the continued use of red deisel by pleasure craft.

The Government has this week published a consultation on red diesel which potentially would allowing red diesel to continue to be sold, although at a higher rate of duty.

Following a meeting with the BMF, RYA and Inland Waterways Association, HM Revenue & Customs on confirmed that they would be launching a consultation document week commencing 30 July.

Transport Minister Stephen Ladyman has announced that he will be pressing ahead with the introduction of an alcohol limit for non-professional mariners.

In the recent Budget statement the Chancellor announced details on how he plans to implement the ending of the derogation on fuel duty, in line with the recent EU directive.

The BMF and RYA met with HM Customs Officials on 7 March to review progress to date and receive an update on Government thinking about how they propose to implement the European Commission decision to remove the Red Diesel derogation that was announced in December.

The Treasury Minister, John Healey, confirmed today that the European Commission has rejected the UK Government's application to renew the UK's derogation on red diesel for private recreational boaters.

Ofcom will start issuing the new lifetime licences from Dec 2006 removing the requirement for radio users to purchase a licence each year.

The changes will reduce the administrative burden on the UK’s 68,900 maritime licensees.

Marine industry leaders and boat users warmly welcomed the Government's statement on Monday 5 December 2006 that it is minded to apply to renew the derogation for private pleasure craft to use red diesel.